Sheffield speedway: Tigers appear for danger rider Richard Lawson

Nigel Pearson

Sheffield Tigers will face the man they almost signed when Richard Lawson lines up for Scunthorpe at Owlerton tomorrow.

Club co-promoter Damien Bates has confirmed they have always been big admirers of Lawson and there have been occasions when informal talks have taken place.

Bates refused to reveal when Lawson was in their team plans but he says his appearance as a replacement for the injured Steve Worrall in the Scunthorpe side adds strength to an already powerhouse side.

Said Bates: “It’s true we are fans of Richard here at Sheffield and it’s fair to say he loves riding here.

“Scunthorpe have been very shrewd in booking him to replace Stevie and he’s sure to be a major threat for them. They look really strong.

“I think this could be one of the meetings of the season and we need to win to keep our interest going in the Shield competition before heading to Scunthorpe for the return on Friday.

“We have talked to Lawson before about possibly riding for Sheffield, in fact it’s happened on a couple of occasions but he’s never actually been on our team sheet.

“For whatever reason it has just never happened and I have to say we have been happy with our team over the past two or three seasons.

“I think if one of us really wanted it to happen, I mean Richard or the club, then it would have done, but you never know what the future holds.”

Bates has joined the rest of the sport in paying tribute to the greatest rider of all-time, Ivan Mauger, following his passing at the age of 78.

“All at Sheffield Speedway would like to offer our condolences to Ivan’s family,” he said. “It’s very sad times because he was arguably the greatest ever rider, the only one who comes close is Tony Rickardsson.

“I’m told Ivan was a great rival of Sheffield during his time with Hull in the late 70s. I’m sure those meetings had plenty of spice!”

Bates added: “His passing has brought a massive outpouring of emotion and tributes, that speaks volumes for the man.”